Blancpain - Oscillating weight shaped like a boat propeller
GMT XXL - Summer 2009
While Blancpain presented at the Baselworld 2009 watch show the "big sister" of its now famous Fifty Fathoms watch, the brand-new 500 Fathoms, the brand from Paudex chose the Cannes Boat Show to unveil the limited edition of this powerful model: the 500 Fathoms Cannes Boat Show, produced in a limited edition of just 20 watches.
The ultra-virile 500 Fathoms is fitted with a crown guard and a 48 mmdiameter titanium case - an unusual size for Blancpain. Displaying an uncompromisingly sporting design and water-resistant to 1000 metres, it is equipped with a helium decompression valve that is vital when diving in a closed environment. Placed inside the case at 10 o'clock, this automatic decompression valve guarantees the security and the reliability of the watch, without requiring any handling on the part of the wearer. To enhance readability, Blancpain has designed large phosphorescent Arabic numerals that are hollowed into the sunray-brushed metal appliques.
The luminescent coating on the hour-markers, bezel markings and hands, along with the red tip of the sweep seconds hand, ensure optimal readability in all circumstances. The luminescent base of the black dial reveals its fluorescence only in the dark, while the date appears in white against a black background at 4 o'clock. The unidirectional ratcheted bezel facilitates handling and avoids any involuntary extension of the dive time. Crafted in titanium and sapphire crystal, it features a gentle cambered relief that reduces the risk of impacts.
REAFFIRMING ITS MANUFACTURING EXPERTISE
The 500 Fathoms is powered by the self-winding Calibre 1315, specifically designed to equip sports watches. It incorporates a glucydur balance with micrometric regulating screws, which helps to prevent any jarring from disturbing the smooth running of the watch. Three series-coupled barrels guarantee constant energy and a five-day power reserve. The calendar mechanism enables the user to make fast date adjustments in either direction even at midnight, without any risk of damaging the mechanism. Another noteworthy feature of the 500 Fathoms is its sapphire crystal allowing one to admire its self-winding movement, as well as its engraved oscillating weight shaped like a boat propeller, without compromising either water resistance or safety